Designing landscapes in the high altitude offers a unique challenge. Many problems occur in choosing the limited plant material because of the harsh environment and there are even more problems in choosing plant material to survive the pests. The vastly expanding mountain communities has presented a need in the landscape industry to provide "the beautiful mountain garden" while respecting the environment. This is why I decided to work on an undergraduate research project that would not only address the pathology issues within the high altitudes but also the design aspect.
The introductory page uses pictures for identification of the possible problems occurring in the high altitudes. The idea is that the viewer will access this site and know nothing about the pest and very little about the host, but by the use of pictures they could identify a possible problem. Each page lists the common name, and scientific if possible, to the problem and explains the reason and conditions it occurs under. Each page includes the following:
Susceptible Plants: Every Page includes a list of plants that are not recommended because they are likely to be problematic.
Less Susceptible Plants: The less susceptible plants are chosen because they are less likely to have problems, however, please note that these are not resistant.
Alternative plant in the landscape: The plant located here was chosen as a landscape solution. It is a suggested alternative and may or may not survive in the area, but was chosen because it is similar to the susceptible plants in size, form, and conditions.
Before setting about to design a landscape, ask yourself these questions: What native plants thrive in this area? Is there a specific pest problem that commonly occurs in this area? Take time to ask a local county agent about the problems commonly affecting plants in the area. Go to a local nursery and look at the plants available for use. Many problems can be avoided if the designer plans accordingly to the area.
There will always be problems within any landscape. Nature will work in its mysterious way, regardless of the precautions made. Accepting this to a degree will help ease the frequent frustrations of a designed landscape. A landscape, after all, is created to provide a beautiful space of relaxation and a functional design.
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If you have questions that pertain to the plants in the high altitude, but are not answered here, try this web site - http://gardenguide.montana.edu/
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Gough, RE (ed). 2000. Choosing Trees and Shrubs for Montana Landscapes, by Evans, G.E. and A.C. Epps. Second Edition. Montana Extension Bul. 123.
Although not cited on every page this book was used heavily in determining the susceptible and less susceptible trees in this area. It is an excellent reference to designing landscapes in the Montana area. To purchase a copy call: (406) 994-5132 or e-mail APBTK@Montana.edu
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For and excellent publication on creating a native plant landscape check write for this publication:
Creating Native Landscapes in
the Northern Great Plains and Rocky Mountains
USDA NRCS
10 E. Babcock, Rm 443
Bozeman, MT 59715
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| Fire Blight
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Aspen Canker
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| Black Knot
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Sunscald and Frost
Cracking of Deciduous Trees
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| Iron Deficiency
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Winter Desiccation on Evergreen Trees
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Contributions and Advisors:
Bob Gough Horticulturist (http://gardenguide.montana.edu/)
Bill Grey Plant Pathologist / Advisor (wgrey@montana.edu)
Will Lanier Entomologist/Diagnostician
Martha Mikkelson Plant Pathologist/Diagnostician
Dick Pohl Landscape Architect